Islamabad: The Intellectual Property Organization Pakistan is all set to observe World Intellectual Property Day on Friday in a befitting manner.

This year, the theme of Day, to be observed on 26th of this month, is "IP and SDGs: Building Our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity."

Addressing a news conference in Islamabad on Wednesday to share details of the celebrations to mark the Day, Chairman Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) Pakistan, Farukh Amil, emphasized the critical role that intellectual property plays in fostering innovation and creativity.

He said Intellectual Property is a cornerstone for sustainable development, driving economic growth, and enabling societies to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

In her remarks, Director General IPO Pakistan Shazia Adnan said the IPO also plans to launch a series of events and workshops throughout the year to engage stakeholders in meaningful conversations about intellectual property and sustainable development.

She said these initiatives are aimed at bridging the gap between innovators and policymakers, fostering an ecosystem where creativity and sustainability go hand in hand. 

Karachi: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif called for harmony among federal and provincial governments and collective efforts to bring economic stability in the country.

Addressing the meeting of Sindh cabinet along with Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah in Karachi on Wednesday, Shehbaz Sharif said his visit is aimed to take all the provinces on board for the development projects.

He said Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz respects mandate of all parties and we must now work together for the development and prosperity of the country.

The Prime Minister said that recent visits of the foreign delegations are a welcome sign.

He said new agreements with neighboring and friendly countries and establishment of border markets will boost trade.

Shehbaz Sharif said the visits of Saudi Arabian and Iranian delegations will increase foreign investment and strengthen economy of the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister about the financial problems of the province.

He informed that the School Rehabilitation Project, Barrages Project, and Solid Waste Project are pending with the Federal Government for necessary approval.

The Prime Minister directed the Federal Finance Minister to resolve the financial issues.

On the request of Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon, the Prime Minister announced to give 150 buses in a pool of 300 buses.

He also directed to resolve the issue of K-4 water project and Karachi Circular Railway project.

Rawalpindi:  The President’s Cup 50-over tournament commenced with a thrilling tied match between Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) at the Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on Wednesday.

Batting first, WAPDA posted 258 for six in their allotted 50 overs. In turn, KRL needed two runs off the final delivery for victory, but managed only one run to finish at 258 for eight. As there was no Super Over, points were equally shared between the two sides.

The other match at the Abbottabad Cricket Stadium was rained off without a ball being bowled.

At the Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium, Bismillah Khan top-scored for WAPDA with 86 (83, 10x4, 1x6), while Khalid Usman contributed 41 not out, Awais Khan 28, and Muhammad Akhlaq 27. KRL’s Kashif Ali took two wickets for 42 runs for KRL.

When KRL batted, Sharoon Siraj and Waqar Ahmed hit half-centuries. Sharoon’s 61-ball 71 included eight fours and two sixes, while Waqar hit five fours in an 82-ball 52. Rohail Nazir (42), Aamer Azmat (28), and Maaz Sadaqat (22) were the other notable run-scorers.

For WAPDA, Akif Javed and Ali Raza took three wickets apiece, conceding 51 and 56 runs, respectively.

Scores in brief:

WAPDA vs KRL match tied at Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

WAPDA 258-6, 50 overs (Bismillah Khan 86, Khalid Usman 41 not out, Awais Khan 28, Muhammad Akhlaq 27, Ahmed Shehzad 25; Kashif Ali 2-42)

KRL 258-8, 50 overs (Sharoon Siraj 71, Waqar Ahmed 52, Rohail Nazir 42, Aamer Azmat 28, Maaz Sadaqat 22; Akif Javed 3-51, Ali Raza 3-56)

PTV vs SBP match at the Abbottabad Cricket Stadium abandoned without a ball being bowled

SNGPL v Ghani Glass, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium (match started at 2pm and the result will be updated on the PCB website)

Fixtures for Friday: WAPDA vs Ghani Glass, Shoaib Akhtar Stadium; KRL vs PTV, Abbottabad Cricket Stadium; SBP vs HEC, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium